Four decades of innovation have dramatically shaped our perceptions of Mars - from the first grainy images to 360-degree panoramas in color. TIME's photo editors roundup the awe-inspiring images from the most outstanding expeditions, including the Mars Curiosity rover.

Four decades of innovation have dramatically shaped our perceptions of Mars – from the first grainy images to 360-degree panoramas in color. TIME’s photo editors roundup the awe-inspiring images from the most outstanding expeditions, including the Mars Curiosity rover.